Novara FM: How Labour’s Left-Wing Firebrands Fought Back w/ Andy Beckett
Jun 25, 2024
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Author Andy Beckett discusses the enduring legacy of key Labour left figures like Tony Benn and Jeremy Corbyn. They delve into the challenges faced by left-wing politicians, the rise and fall of Corbynism, and the hope for the left in British politics
Labour left's enduring popularity despite historical challenges.
1968's influence on Labour Party's key figures' social liberalism.
Corbynism's unexpected rise and impact on Labour Party dynamics.
Deep dives
Formation of a Radical Left Flank within the Labour Party
The podcast episode delves into the journey of key figures from the Labour Party's radical left flank, including Tony Benn, Diane Abbott, John McDonnell, Ken Livingston, and Jeremy Corbyn. Examining their evolution from the 1960s radical movements through the peak of Corbynism in 2017, the narrative explores their efforts to push for a socially liberal form of leftism. These individuals were linked personally, driving a story of ebbs and flows in their performance within the party.
Challenges to Traditional Orthodoxies and Power Structures
This episode also highlights the figures' challenges against national and Labour Party orthodoxies. It discusses how their political ideologies clashed with the establishment's beliefs of maintaining power distribution and the limited scope of transformative change. The narrative sheds light on the prevailing resistance faced by these individuals and the broader implications of their careers on the organization of power in the UK.
Influences of 1968 on Political Ideologies
The podcast explores how the events of 1968 shaped the ideologies of key figures in the Labour Party. It delves into the impact of 1968 on individuals like Tony Benn, Ken Livingston, and Diane Abbott, highlighting how social liberalism emerged as a defining trait among the leftist movements. The formation of a more socially liberal and anti-state perspective among these figures is explored in contrast to traditional leftist ideologies.
Impact of Activism and Coalition Building
Moreover, the podcast discusses the significance of activism and coalition building in shaping the trajectory of the Labour Party, particularly post-Iraq War. It reflects on the unexpected rise of Corbynism in 2014-2015 and the failure of the party and media to anticipate the surge of support. The episode emphasizes the emergence of a stronger street politics movement and how it influenced the party dynamics, leading to Corbyn's unexpected election as party leader.
Labor Party Shift to the Right
The podcast explores how the right of the Labour Party tried to replicate successful strategies used against Corbyn, but failed to adapt to changing circumstances. This shift was rooted in misinterpreting past failures like Ed Miliband's leadership and the party's failure to address systemic issues affecting the electorate.
Ideological Challenges Faced by Corbynism
The discussion highlights the challenges faced by Corbyn and his team in navigating power dynamics and ideological positions within the Labour Party. It delves into the improvisational nature of the leadership, the lack of readiness in the early stages, and the internal divisions between the soft left and the radical left. The podcast also touches upon the structural forces, media biases, and leadership strategies that shaped the outcomes for Corbynism.
It’s easy to think that the Labour left is gone for good. But it’s not so certain. From the 80s to the 10s, the Labour left endured almost three decades of isolation and exile. The difference this time is that their ideas are still popular. Will they be back once more, or have they now […]
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